3 Ways to Help Your Air Conditioner Last (Almost) Forever

Your HVAC system is a major investment as well as one of the most important components of your home. A fully functioning and efficient air conditioner will keep your home comfortable and cool in the hot California summer without causing your electric bill to completely skyrocket. With a little preventative maintenance, your air conditioner should last many years. Here are a few tips to ensure this happens:

Make Annual Inspections a Habit

Many homeowners make the mistake of only calling an HVAC company when something goes majorly wrong with their system. A wiser approach is to have an annual inspection each year, typically in the spring just before the temperatures rise and you start using your AC regularly. A qualified HVAC company will inspect your system, find areas that aren't working as efficiently as they should or components that need repaired, and make repairs before these things turn into larger and more expensive issues. They will also make sure you have a clean air conditioning unit and filters so can get the most from your HVAC system.

Repair Air Leaks

If your cold, air conditioned air is escaping your home all summer your AC will have to work much harder than it should to keep your home cool. This will lead to higher electricity bills and an air conditioning system that wears out before its time. Periodically inspect your home for places where air is escaping. Add new weatherstripping around windows and doors if yours is worn out, fill in cracks and holes, and make sure your attic is adequately insulated.

Provide Shade for the Outdoor Unit

If your air conditioning unit is sitting directly in the hot California sun, it may have to work extra hard to cool things down. If you can, have it moved to a shady spot. If that isn't possible, you can purchase an air conditioner shade cover online or at most major home improvement stores, or even make one yourself if you are handy.

If you have questions about maintaining or replacing your HVAC system, don't hesitate to contact us.